Paedophile Keith Gilding Jailed for 18 Years Over Horrific Abuse
Gilding Convicted of 14 Sex Offences
Keith Gilding, 72, from Dale Road, Dereham, has been sentenced to 18 years behind bars at Norwich Crown Court. He was found guilty of 14 offences including eight counts of indecent assault, two counts of rape, two counts of buggery, and two counts of sexual intercourse with a child under 13.
Gilding initially denied all charges but later pleaded guilty. He will also serve one year on licence and is subject to an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO).
Abuse Spanning Late 1980s to 1990
Between the late 1980s and 1990, Gilding sexually abused two victims – one from childhood through their teenage years, including rape, and another who was assaulted as a young child.
One victim bravely reported the abuse to police in June 2020. Following an interview with the second victim in July 2020, Gilding was arrested on 16 July 2020.
Victims Speak Out About Lifelong Impact
“I didn’t even like cuddling, even when I became a parent. I couldn’t show my emotions,” revealed one victim. “I have flashbacks still to this day.”
The second victim opened up about turning to alcohol in their teens to numb the pain. “Only becoming a parent helped me begin to heal, but the flashbacks remain.”
Police Offer Support to Survivors
Detective Constable Emma Beck said: “This sentence hopefully offers some justice for the victims. Gilding abused his position of trust and caused lasting damage to his victims’ lives and relationships.”
“We urge anyone affected by sexual abuse to come forward and seek help.”
